Chapter 3 begins the transition from a Christian understanding of salvation, grace, and the power of Christ into a practical guide for Christian living. To make the transition, in this chapter, Paul refers to his own calling by God and prays for the spiritual strength of the Ephesian church.

Ephesians 3:20 goes on to express the magnitude of God’s can-do ability as “exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think.” Not just “above,” not just “exceeding above”—God can do “exceeding abundantly above” all that we ask or think, when we ask and think according to what He has promised in His Word!

This verse is a promise that God will never forsake those who seek Him. He will provide for our financial, physical, and spiritual needs. One special meaning in this verse also has to do with God’s desire to reward us for our hard work.

And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.

• Philippians 4:19

Need courage, strength, money, patience? When you put your faith and trust in Christ, God will meet all your needs. This doesn’t necessarily mean He’ll give you all your wants or desires, although God will often give blessings out of His great love. And God can bring your wants and desires in line with His will; His will is always for you and not against you.

This verse is a promise that God will never forsake those who seek Him. He will provide for our financial, physical, and spiritual needs. One special meaning in this verse also has to do with God’s desire to reward us for our hard work. When we are generous in our giving of finances, talents, and our time for God’s kingdom, God delights in being even more generous to us than we are to Him. We can’t out-give God!